January 3, 2024
Federal government launches new crisis helpline: 9-8-8
WARNING: This story contains mentions of suicide.
Canadians now have access to a three-digit suicide crisis helpline. The federal government launched the helpline in November 2023 to provide suicide prevention support for people who need it, when they need it most. 9-8-8: Suicide Crisis Helpline is available to call or text, in English or French, 24 hours a day and seven days a week, across Canada.
Suicide continues to be a serious public health issue impacting people of all ages and backgrounds. An average of 4,500 people across Canada die by suicide each year — approximately 12 people per day. This is why the Government of Canada has provided $156 million over three years to the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) to implement and operate 9-8-8: Suicide Crisis Helpline.
“As a psychiatrist, I’ve witnessed the transformative power of connection. Even just one conversation can help someone reconnect with their strengths and forge new ways of coping,” said Dr. Allison Crawford, chief medical officer of the helpline and psychiatrist at CAMH. “If you are feeling hopeless, our message to you is: you are not alone. 9-8-8: Suicide Crisis Helpline can offer you a non-judgmental space to talk. Whatever you are going through, please know you can always reach out to us.”
An experienced network of partners has trained responders ready to answer 9-8-8 calls and texts. Responders will provide support and compassion without judgment, and are there to help callers and texters explore ways to keep themselves safe when things are overwhelming.
“Asking for help is a strength, not a weakness. There is hope and resources available for people in need,” said the Honourable Ya’ara Saks, minister of mental health and addiction and associate minister of health. “While we celebrate the launch of 9-8-8, we must also acknowledge that this is just the beginning. We will continue to work closely with CAMH, provinces and territories and other important partners to ensure 9-8-8 continues to meet the ever-changing needs of Canada's diverse populations. There is no health without mental health, and I look forward to the contribution this service will make.”
Canadians now have access to a three-digit suicide crisis helpline. The federal government launched the helpline in November 2023 to provide suicide prevention support for people who need it, when they need it most. 9-8-8: Suicide Crisis Helpline is available to call or text, in English or French, 24 hours a day and seven days a week, across Canada.
Suicide continues to be a serious public health issue impacting people of all ages and backgrounds. An average of 4,500 people across Canada die by suicide each year — approximately 12 people per day. This is why the Government of Canada has provided $156 million over three years to the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) to implement and operate 9-8-8: Suicide Crisis Helpline.
“As a psychiatrist, I’ve witnessed the transformative power of connection. Even just one conversation can help someone reconnect with their strengths and forge new ways of coping,” said Dr. Allison Crawford, chief medical officer of the helpline and psychiatrist at CAMH. “If you are feeling hopeless, our message to you is: you are not alone. 9-8-8: Suicide Crisis Helpline can offer you a non-judgmental space to talk. Whatever you are going through, please know you can always reach out to us.”
An experienced network of partners has trained responders ready to answer 9-8-8 calls and texts. Responders will provide support and compassion without judgment, and are there to help callers and texters explore ways to keep themselves safe when things are overwhelming.
“Asking for help is a strength, not a weakness. There is hope and resources available for people in need,” said the Honourable Ya’ara Saks, minister of mental health and addiction and associate minister of health. “While we celebrate the launch of 9-8-8, we must also acknowledge that this is just the beginning. We will continue to work closely with CAMH, provinces and territories and other important partners to ensure 9-8-8 continues to meet the ever-changing needs of Canada's diverse populations. There is no health without mental health, and I look forward to the contribution this service will make.”